Director - Integrated Vehicle Test Engineering and Operations

About the Role
Director of Integrated Spacecraft Test Engineering leads our Integrated Vehicle Test Group, providing strategic leadership and technical expertise for the comprehensive development, integration, testing, and validation of spacecraft systems throughout the entire product lifecycle. This senior leadership role is responsible for establishing and executing a unified approach to spacecraft testing across all development phases, ensuring operational excellence and program success through cross‑functional collaboration and rigorous validation processes.

About You
Our mission is driven by an unyielding commitment to advancing space‑based technology in service of our customers and safeguarding national security. We seek individuals who are passionate about innovating beyond boundaries and relentlessly pursuing solutions that protect, preserve and empower – to join us in this critical mission.

We’re looking for team members who align with our values, mission and goals – while also meeting the minimum qualifications below. The preferred qualifications are a bonus, not a requirement.

Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership

Direct the development and execution of the organization’s integrated spacecraft test strategy aligned with business objectives and program requirements

Establish and maintain a full program lifecycle concept of operations for integrated vehicle testing

Build and lead a multi‑disciplinary department that unifies vehicle testing across all development phases

Develop specialized expertise in integrated vehicle testing methodologies across the organization

Foster a collaborative environment that maximizes knowledge sharing and problem‑solving

Technical Program Management

Develop and release baseline program test plans with complete engineering definitions in coordination with Systems Engineering teams

Coordinate continuously with Systems Engineering and Program teams to evaluate and plan requirements and test events

Ensure all integrated test efforts align with program schedules and requirements

Identify integration and test risks, assess mitigation strategies, and provide independent recommendations to stakeholders

Facilitate escalation and communication of data‑driven risk and mitigation options with respect to cost, schedule and technical. Facilitate decision path in response to program challenges, or technical issues.

Oversee system‑level integration of subsystems and components (mechanical, electrical, software)

Test Infrastructure & Equipment

Identify demand for flight support equipment needed to execute full program lifecycle test campaigns (EGSE, MGSE, STE)

Provide lab‑level facilities and labor resources for early hardware/software product development and integration

Identify demand for R&D level test equipment and cabling in development phase of hardware and software integration

Test Execution & Validation

Manage verification/validation and environmental test campaigns (thermal vacuum, vibration, shock, EMI/EMC, etc.)

Develop and release execution level products for test events including procedures, ground software scripts, and special test equipment

Deploy certified personnel for lab level, subsystem, and integrated system powered‑on testing

Lead test anomaly and troubleshooting efforts, ensuring root cause identification and appropriate corrective actions

Support evaluation of readiness, including Test Readiness Reviews (TRRs), integration milestones, and major program reviews

Cross‑Functional Leadership

Maintain continuous coordination with Production, Ground Operations, and Program teams for performance to plan (cost and schedule)

Facilitate subsystem and system level hardware/software development, integration, test, and troubleshooting

Develop and maintain business alignment to Command Media and Product Realization relative to Integration and Test function

Communicate complex technical topics to senior decision‑makers with varying technical backgrounds through clear briefings and written reports

Qualifications
Education & Experience

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Aerospace, Electrical, Mechanical, or related field) required; Master’s degree preferred

12+ years of experience with spacecraft systems engineering, integration, and testing

5+ years of leadership experience in spacecraft test engineering or related field

Demonstrated experience as a Lead Systems Engineer, Integration & Test Manager, or equivalent role on spacecraft or satellite programs

Technical Knowledge

Comprehensive knowledge of spacecraft systems design, development, assembly, integration, and testing

Experience with all phases of the satellite mission lifecycle, from concept development through launch and landing operations

Strong understanding of integration flows, test sequencing, and verification methodologies

Expertise in environmental test planning and execution (TVAC, vibration, acoustic, EMI/EMC, shock, etc.)

Familiarity with industry standards and best practices for spacecraft integration and environmental testing

Leadership & Professional Skills

Proven ability to lead large, cross‑functional technical teams in a fast‑paced environment

Excellent interpersonal, leadership, team building, and problem‑solving skills

Strong program management capabilities with experience managing complex technical projects

Outstanding written and verbal communication skills with ability to present to executive leadership

Experience with budget planning, resource allocation, and personnel development

Security Requirements

Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance appropriate to the position

Willingness to travel up to 25% as required to support program needs during environmental test and launch campaigns

Working Environment

Primary work location – Louisville, CO with some on‑person support in Centennial, CO

May require occasional extended hours to support critical test operations

Fast‑paced environment requiring adaptability and decisive leadership during critical test phases

Compensation
Pay Range:

$177,838.00 - $244,526.50

Your actual base compensation will be determined on a case‑by‑case basis and may vary based on job‑related knowledge and skills, education, experience, internal equity and market competitiveness.

IMPORTANT NOTICE
To conform to U.S. Government international trade regulations, applicant must be a U.S. Citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State or U.S. Department of Commerce.

EQUITY & ACCESSIBILITY
Sierra Space is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. If you need special assistance or a reasonable accommodation related to applying for employment with Sierra Space or at any stage of the recruitment process, please contact us.

Benefits
We also offer a generous benefit package, including medical, dental, and vision plans, 401(k) with 150% match up to 6%, life insurance, 3 weeks paid time off, and more.

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